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New Year's Resolution: Help Your Kids Do Great in School

By: Lynn Liontos

Did you know that kids whose parents are involved in their education have better grades, a better attitude toward school, and more appropriate school behavior than those with less involved parents? Consider trying a few of these tips — and make a big difference!

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Did you know that kids whose parents are involved in their education have better grades, a better attitude toward school, and more appropriate school behavior than those with less involved parents? Consider trying a few of these tips — and make a big difference!

Tip 1: Get involved

Visit your child's classroom when you bring your child to school.

See if your school offers any workshops for parents, and arrange to go!

Tip 2: Check on homework

Talk to your child each day about homework.

Help your child manage the workload by dividing assignments into smaller parts.

Give your child a good place to study-away from TV, phone, or loud music.

Do not use homework as a punishment; include it as part of the daily routine.

Tip 3: Make home a good place for learning

Praise and encourage your child.

Be a role model for getting work done before play.

Establish a homework routine-same time, same place, every day.

Most importantly, read to your child or have him read to you every day.

What should I do if my child isn't doing well in school?

Contact your child's teacher; don't wait for the school to contact you. Ask for specific activities you can do at home with your child. Meet with your child's teacher frequently until the problem is resolved.

What if my child doesn't like school?

Try to find out why your child seems unhappy with school. Arrange for a conference with the teacher or school counselor. Listen carefully to your child before you offer any solutions.

Comments

I love Tip 3: setting up a good environment for learning. Since we emphasize reading a lot in our house, I try to read at the same time as my kids. It's good for me, plus it shows them that it can be an enjoyable activity rather than a chore or just a school assignment. As a result, I've of course had to research books to figure out what I want to read next. Part of my resolution is to read novels that aren't just 'fun' but teach me things about other cultures. I just started 'Israela' by Batya Casper, which is definitely a great start for that resolution. It's kind of a inside look into everyday life in Israel, which is certainly something I haven't experienced before. I love it so far! Anybody have other recommendations?